2005 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac Escalade (340 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (145 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 1082 kg more than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Cadillac Escalade is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac Escalade will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Cadillac Escalade (380 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac Escalade | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | Escalade | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5966 cc | 5012 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2678 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5630 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 76 L |
